Author: Tristan Lewis

IOEM Staff Attend 2024 National Preparedness Symposium

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Five team members of the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) traveled to the Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP) in Anniston, Alabama from May 6-10, 2024, to join over 200 emergency management professionals at FEMA’s 2024 National Preparedness Symposium. Under the theme “Collaborative Preparedness and Resilience: Bridging Gaps Across Jurisdictional Boundaries,” this event focused on cutting-edge strategies for enhancing national resilience, including harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) for emergency response and learning lessons from recent disasters like the Maui wildfires.

During this action-packed week; Training and Exercise Chief, Levi Orr; Training Operations Coordinator, Autumn McMurdie; Training and Exercise Project Manager, Isaiah La Masters; Emergency Planner, Christina Lazar; and Emergency Planner, Delanie Edmunds; took part in a series of discussions and hands-on sessions. They explored the “whole of community” approach to climate resilience, which emphasizes the importance of getting everyone involved—government agencies, businesses, non-profits, and the general public—to tackle climate challenges together. These collaborative discussions are crucial as Idaho looks to bolster its defenses against future climate impacts.

AI in emergency response and preparedness was another hot topic. Attendees looked at how AI can improve predictive capabilities, streamline response efforts, and boost overall efficiency during emergencies. They also explored how AI and be utilized to train responders and emergency managers. While AI offers many benefits, it also presents challenges that need careful consideration.

One highlight of the symposium was the session on the Maui wildfires, which offered a deep dive into the disaster’s response and recovery efforts. The lessons learned from Maui will help IOEM and staff refine its strategies and ensure that Idaho is ready to respond swiftly and effectively to similar incidents.

Beyond these topics, the symposium also covered a wide range of other issues, including understanding and countering evolving security risks posed by nation-state threats, defining and serving underserved communities better by enhancing national standards for emergency management through the National Qualification System. The event also touched up on the guidance for state training officers on National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) training and explored the impacts of border security on emergency management and healthcare.

The event also provided great networking opportunities, where IOEM team members connected with peers from across the country, sharing best practices and building relationships to strengthen Idaho’s emergency preparedness and response capabilities.

The CDP was established in 1998 and is the nation’s only federally chartered Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) training center. The CDP offers top level hands-on training for America’s emergency responders, covering everything from chemical to radiological threats.

Enhancing Idaho’s Hazmat Response: Highlights from Hazmat Week 2024

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management’s (IOEM) Hazmat Week 2024 brought together hazardous materials professionals from across the state to enhance their preparedness and capabilities. This intensive five-day training event provided a platform for Regional Response Teams (RRTs) and Idaho State Police (ISP) Hazmat Specialists to improve their knowledge and skill set for responding to hazardous material incidents statewide. Hazmat Week also serves as a cornerstone in keeping Idaho hazmat response teams aware of evolving dangers and challenges they may encounter in the field.

This year, participants hailed from RRT3, RRT4, RRT6, RRT7, and ISP. RRTs are a state-level resource that is made up of members from fire departments across the state. RRT3 has members from Caldwell Fire, Nampa Fire, Emmett Fire, and Weiser Fire; RRT4 is made up of members from Boise Fire; RRT6 is made up of members from Pocatello Fire, and RRT7 is made up of members from Idaho Falls Fire. The ISP Hazmat Team is made up of five ISP officers from around the state.

By bringing together members of RRTs and ISP Hazmat Specialists, the event strengthens collaboration, and share knowledge and best practices.

Throughout the week, attendees engaged in a series of engaging training sessions tailored to address emerging threats and enhance response capabilities. Trainings were held at the Idaho Response Center, Fire Training Center in Boise, and Boise Fire Station 17. Some of the key classes included:

  • TEPP Rad Training (Radiation Identification/Safety Levels): Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of radiation types, associated hazards, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Hands-on exercises with detection equipment provided practical experience crucial for accurate radiation monitoring and assessment.
  • Battery Operation for Technicians (Lithium-Ion Battery Dangers): An interactive course, this class provided invaluable insights into the hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries. Attendees learned about fire suppression limitations and explored available tools while sharing real-life encounters with these increasingly prevalent hazards.
  • Tactical Chemistry: Attendees honed their skills in identifying hazardous substances using a variety of tests and specialized equipment. This practical training enhances responders’ ability to identify substances quickly and accurately in both liquid and solid states.

Hazmat Week served as an opportunity to foster collaboration and network among different response teams statewide. Through shared experiences and collaborative discussions, participants identified common challenges and explored innovative solutions to improve response capabilities collectively.

By investing in training and creating opportunities for collaboration, IOEM ensures that responders are well-equipped to safeguard communities and mitigate the impact of hazardous material incidents across the state. For more information about Hazmat Week or those interested in hazmat training opportunities, please contact Sarah Cerda at scerda@imd.idaho.gov.

Blazing Awareness: Wildfire Preparedness Month in Idaho

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As Idaho braces itself for another wildfire season, Governor Brad Little has designated May as Wildfire Preparedness Month. This declaration aims to raise awareness and readiness among residents, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to mitigate wildfire risks.

With communities expanding into the wildland-urban interface, more residents are exposed to wildfire impacts. In fact, there is no county in the state without a significant wildland fire hazard. Data from FEMA and NOAA show that Idaho experiences about seven wildfire events each year, with the possibility of increased frequency due to climate change impacts.

Given the longer and more intense wildfire seasons, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) offers preparedness tips and encourages all Idahoans to remain vigilant and ready.

“Wildfires are oftentimes unplanned fires that give little warning and can spread quickly devastating wildlife, land, and communities,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “It is important to be ready at a moment’s notice.”

Wildfire Preparedness Measures:

      • Making a Plan: Ensure household members understand evacuation procedures, develop evacuation plans for workplaces and schools, and practice evacuation drills regularly.

      • Strengthening Your Home: Utilize fire-resistant materials, identify outdoor water sources with hoses, establish a 30-foot fire-resistant zone around homes, and designate sealed rooms for smoky conditions.

      • Gathering Supplies: Stock up on essentials in a go bag, including a first aid kit, non-perishable food, water, phone charger, pet supplies, medication and N95 masks for smoke protection.

    Wildfire Preparedness Month Events:

    IOEM Wildfire Mitigation Actions

    IOEM implements several mitigation strategies that address wildfire hazards across the state. These strategies are designed to not only reduce the risk and impact of wildfires but also foster resilience within communities. Some key mitigation efforts include:

      • Promoting Statewide Consistency for Local Plans: IOEM works to promote consistency in the hazard mitigation planning process at the local level. By providing guidance and resources, IOEM ensures that local communities and jurisdictions develop mitigation plans that effectively address wildfire risks while adhering to statewide standards.

      • Developing a Statewide Approach to Modeling and Mapping: IOEM recognizes the importance of accurate modeling and mapping of wildfire hazards, both current and projected. By developing a statewide approach to this process, IOEM aims to provide communities with valuable data and insights to inform their mitigation efforts and land-use planning decisions.

      • Utilizing ArcGIS StoryMaps: To enhance communication and transparency, IOEM displays approved State Hazard Mitigation Plan (SHMP) and mitigation success stories on ArcGIS StoryMaps. This interactive platform allows stakeholders to access information about mitigation projects, their outcomes, and the overall progress of statewide mitigation efforts.

      • Providing Community Resilience Action Planning Assistance: IOEM offers assistance to communities in developing resilience action plans that promote cooperation, collaboration, and informed decision-making. These plans are interdisciplinary and solutions-oriented, taking into account the unique needs and challenges of each community. By creating equitable decision-making processes, IOEM ensures that stakeholders have a voice in shaping resilient communities that can withstand and recover from wildfire events.

    By staying informed, prepared, and vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with wildfires to reduce the risks associated with wildfires and protect themselves and their properties.

    For more information on preparing for a wildfire event, visit the following resources:

    Valley County Receives Funding for East Fork Road Repairs and Mitigation Efforts

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    Following the severe storms of 2019 that brought widespread flooding, landslides, and mudslides to North Central Idaho, Valley County has received support from the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to address the resulting damage and facilitate recovery.

    The 2019 storms inflicted extensive damage on East Fork Road, including a large debris slide that resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs. Recognizing the need for support and assistance, IOEM, FEMA, and other agency partners have been actively collaborating with Valley County to reimburse the costs associated with repairs and mitigation activities.

    On April 18, 2024, IOEM Director, Brad Richy, and FEMA Region 10 Deputy Administrator, Vince Maykovich, presented Valley County Commissioner, Elting Hasbrouck, and Road and Bridge Superintendent, Jeff McFadden, with a payment to reimburse the costs of the necessary repairs. The federal and state contributions totaled more than $636,000. Additional funds will be provided as necessary as work associated with mitigation efforts continue through 2024.

    IOEM is proud to partner with FEMA in assisting local communities like Valley County in their response to, and recovery from, Idaho’s natural disasters. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring that affected communities receive the necessary support and resources to rebuild, recover, and thrive.

    Idaho Hosts Western Regions Wildfire Summit

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    The Idaho Response Center in Boise was the hub for pivotal discussions on wildfire management and preparedness as Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) Region 10 hosted Western Regions Wildfire Summit. Dozens of experts and leaders from state and federal agencies gathered to discuss and prepare for the 2024 fire season.

    During the summit, attendees were provided with a critical briefing by the National Interagency Fire Center’s Predictive Services on the expected conditions for the 2024 fire season, highlighting the importance of preparedness. Discussions also delved into strategies for post-wildfire restoration and effective mitigation practices to build resilience against future wildfires.

    Another focus of the summit was enhancing collaboration between federal and state partners, as outlined in the recommendations presented by FEMA’s Public Assistance Director, Robert Pesapane. Deputy Director of FEMA Individual Assistance, Zach Usher, introduced innovative approaches to post-fire sheltering and housing, emphasizing support systems for affected communities.

    Further insights came from the U.S. Forest Service, which shared lessons from hazardous tree operations during the 2020 Oregon wildfires and updates to their rating systems. The summit also marked the introduction of FEMA’s new Interagency Coordination Division, which seeks to boost efficiency in post-fire recovery efforts through enhanced interagency collaboration.

    Open discussions allowed participants to address ongoing challenges, explore updates to the Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program, and discuss future enhancements in legal and operational frameworks. These conversations were instrumental in identifying improvement areas and setting actionable goals among emergency management professionals.

    The summit wrapped up with a strong commitment from all attendees to apply the shared knowledge and strategies to their respective roles and regions, reinforcing a collective dedication to making the 2024 fire season a model for preparedness and interagency cooperation.

    “It’s evident that the strength of our preparedness lies in unity,” said IOEM Director, Brad Richy. “Bringing together the expertise and resources from state and federal agencies helps ensure Idaho is better equipped to face the challenges of the wildfire season with robust, collaborative strategies. We are committed to transforming the insights gained here into actions that protect our communities and enhance our resilience against future threats.”

    The Public Private Partnership Security and Resilience Seminar Series Returns for Another Year

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    BOISE, ID – The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is excited to announce the 2024 Public Private Partnership Security and Resilience Seminar Series, an educational initiative aimed at enhancing community preparedness and resilience. Sponsored by IOEM, this series is a collaborative effort with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and Albertsons Companies, involving volunteer speakers with lived experience on key business and industry security and resilience topics.

    Building on the success of the 2023 PSPR2 Seminar Series, which attracted widespread international participation, the 2024 series promises to deliver an even more dynamic and informative program. Featuring subject matter experts from industry, academia, and government sectors, the series will cover critical infrastructure best practices, lessons learned, and introduce valuable preparedness resources and tools to mitigate risk and enhance resilience.

    The four-part series will dive into a diverse range of topics, including an introduction to violence prevention strategies and resources, the safety and security impacts of houselessness on businesses and organizations, and two seminars focusing on the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence. Participants can expect to gain invaluable insights and practical knowledge from each session, with the flexibility to attend individual courses or the entire series.

    The schedule for the 2024 seminar series is as follows:

    • Session 1: May 9 – Introduction to Violence Prevention Strategies and Resources
    • Session 2: June 13 – The Safety and Security Impacts of Houselessness on Businesses and Organizations
    • Session 3: September 12 – Safely Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace
    • Session 4: October 10 – Emerging Cybersecurity Threats: Preparing for the Malicious Use of Artificial Intelligence

    Courses are not cumulative and may be taken individually. Each course counts toward continuing education with CEU credits.

    To register for the series, please click here. For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact training@ghinternational.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your organization’s preparedness and resilience.

    For recordings of the 2023 PSPRS Seminar Series sessions, please click here.

    Idaho Boosts Flood Safety with FEMA Training

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    As spring flood season unfolds in Idaho, emergency response and flood mitigation professionals are collaborating to identify life safety needs for development in flood-prone areas. From April 8-11, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 10 and the Idaho Department of Water Resources co-hosted FEMA’s Managing Floodplain Development Through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) course. This intensive training provided attendees with an in-depth exploration into floodplain management under the NFIP umbrella.

    The course, held at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game Southwest Regional Office in Nampa, brought together floodplain managers, developers, engineers, and emergency managers from across the state. Among them were Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) Planners, Delanie Edmunds and Christina Lazar, and Risk MAP Program Manager, Robin Kiska. Together, they delved into a four-day course to strengthen Idaho’s resilience against flooding challenges.

    The training reviewed important topics such as NFIP minimum floodplain management regulations, Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage (SI/SD) criteria, and the vital role of permitting processes in floodplain management. Participants also gained insights into floodplain management regulations, the significance of ordinance administration, and the interplay between floodplain management and flood insurance.

    In addition, attendees explored Letters of Map Change (LOMCs), flood hazard mitigation solutions, and the roles and responsibilities of a floodplain administrator before and after disaster events.

    At the end of the course, participants took on performance evaluations and research assignments to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

    For professionals like Edmunds, Kiska, and Lazar, this course was as a pivotal step toward achieving certification as a Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM). Upon successful completion of the CFM exam, they would be able to review developments in floodplain areas, prioritizing life safety in every decision made for Idahoans.

    “The information in this course helps Idaho build structures that keep citizens safe from flooding events,” said Edmunds. “Above all, our primary focus remains on ensuring life safety.”

    Managing Floodplain Development Through the National Flood Insurance Program course

    IOEM Unites Federal and State Agencies for Disaster Housing Preparedness Plan

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    As states and local jurisdictions have learned, the availability of long-term housing during disaster recovery is crucial to rebuilding a local economy after disaster strikes. In reviews of various disasters throughout the nation catastrophic housing response efforts has shown to be a consistent area for improvement. Within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 10, there is also the need to identify long-term disaster housing capacity in response to a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake disaster. The State of Idaho would most likely be asked to house not only first responders but citizens in our neighboring states as well, during a period while rebuilding efforts are underway on the West Coast.

    In Fiscal Year 2021, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) received a Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant from FEMA to develop a State Catastrophic Housing Response Framework. Innovate Emergency Management (IEM) was contracted to work with IOEM, various state, local, and volunteer organizations to develop a framework for how the State of Idaho would respond to requests for long term housing support following a disaster.

    This combined effort resulted in not only a Catastrophic Housing Statewide Framework but a Local Long-Term Housing Template and Quick Response Checklist for county use as well. In the event of such a disaster, local jurisdictions now have a template they can use to mold into their plans and operations that dovetails into the Statewide Framework.

    The columniation of this effort was a four-hour tabletop exercise on Tuesday, March 26 bringing together federal response agencies, state emergency response, county commissioners, emergency managers, first responders, the American Red Cross, state and private housing agencies amongst others. The framework was put through it’s paces, validated, and all lessons learned will be incorporated back into the framework.  

    For those interested to learn more about Idaho’s State Catastrophic Housing Response Framework, please reach out to your local Emergency Manager to find out what they are doing with the template. IOEM plan to work the framework into the Office’s exercises and it will be updated biennially. IOEM is currently looking at creating a local sheltering and family reunification plan that will bridge the Disaster Recovery Plan and the Catastrophic Housing Framework. 

    IOEM is grateful to all of the organizations that participated in this development and the exercise wrapping up this effort!

    IOEM Enhances Lemhi County First Responders Hazmat Preparedness

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    Local first responders in Lemhi County gathered for an essential Hazmat Training organized by the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) on April 7. The hybrid Awareness/Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) and State Hazmat Plan training aimed to equip participants with essential skills to identify hazardous materials incidents and coordinate effective responses.

    Attendees included representatives from the Lemhi County Sheriff’s Office, local search and rescue teams, and multiple fire departments within the region. Instructors from Regional Response Team 7, IOEM, and State Communications led the training, providing expertise and guidance throughout the sessions.

    One of the highlights of the training was the Hazmat Awareness portion, during which attendees engaged in a tabletop exercise. This exercise allowed participants to simulate a hazmat scenario, from initial identification to the reporting of the incident to state communications. Through this hands-on activity, responders sharpened their decision-making skills and practiced effective communication protocols.

    “The tabletop exercise was incredibly beneficial in helping emergency responders understand the complexities of hazmat incidents and the importance of prompt and accurate reporting,” said IOEM Hazmat and Special Teams Program Manager, Sarah Cerda.

    Throughout the training, participants reviewed and gained knowledge to identify hazardous materials, assess risks, and initiate appropriate response measures. By investing in hazmat training, Lemhi County’s first responders are ensuring their commitment to preparedness and public safety.

    IOEM is dedicated to supporting local communities in their efforts to enhance hazmat preparedness and response capabilities. Through activities like this training, responders are better equipped to safeguard lives, property, and the environment in the face of potential hazards. For more information on Hazmat training opportunities, contact Sarah Cerda at scerda@imd.idaho.gov.

    Strengthening Idaho’s Emergency Response: A Year of Third Thursday Trainings

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    The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) team stays ready and prepared thanks to Third Thursday trainings! These monthly drills are opportunities for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) to work on plans and procedures, work through issues, and review those plans and procedures, so staff are prepared during an emergency or disaster.

    March 2024 marked a significant milestone for IOEM as it celebrated one year of engaging in these monthly trainings at the Idaho Response Center (IRC). These sessions have proven effective in honing procedures and fostering a culture of readiness among team members.

    Led by the Plans section of Idaho SERT, March’s Third Thursday training focused on the Situation Report (SitRep) process. The primary objectives were to acquaint the SERT with the SitRep process and to provide hands-on practice in its creation. Knowing how to craft a clear and detailed SitRep can help leadership to coordinate a timely and effective state response. It ensures all stakeholders are informed about the state of the current and/or changing situation.

    The exercise received valuable support from emergency managers of Blaine, Kootenai, and Valley counties, along with the Department of Administration and the Department of Health and Welfare’s emergency support function coordinators. Their collaboration was integral as they provided essential information for the SERT Plans Section to incorporate into a SitRep.

    Participants enthusiastically embraced the training, as they engaged in group activities and utilized job aids to help craft SitReps. The collective effort demonstrated great teamwork, with each member contributing relevant ideas and ensuring the creation of SitReps with accurate and actionable information. IOEM team members who participated in the training shared their enjoyment with the collaborative learning experience and emphasized the importance of such exercises in strengthening preparedness capabilities.

    Remember, strong SERT = strong Idaho!